The news comes as Lynch met at the Raiders facility with coach Jack Del Rio. Rapoport previously reported that if Del Rio signs off on Lynch, it could lead to a comeback.

Lynch's desire to join his hometown team in Oakland is merely the first stage of the process. The running back's contract is still held by the Seattle Seahawks, who would have to release Lynch or work out a trade with the Raiders.

Speaking on KIRO-AM in Seattle on Wednesday, Seahawks general manager John Schneider said moving Lynch to Oakland would go "in a smooth manner," due to his relationship with Oakland general manager Reggie McKenzie, via the Seattle Times' Bob Condotta. Schneider added that Lynch would only want to return to play for the Raiders.

Beast Mode's connection to Oakland is deep, so it's understandable why the 30-year-old running back would want play for the Raiders.